Difference between revisions of "Paro Taktsang"
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[[File:Paro_Taktsang.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Paro_Taktsang.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
| − | Paro Taktsang ( | + | [[Image:Taksang2.jpg|thumb|450px|The Taktsang Monastery in Paro, Bhutan]] |
| + | [[Image:Taktsang.jpg|thumb|450px|Another view on Taktsang Monastery]] | ||
| + | '''Taktsang Monastery''' also called '''[[Tiger Nest]]''' or '''[[Paro Taktsang]]''' ([[Wyl.]] ''[[spa gro stag tshang]]'') is situated on a nearly vertical cliff at 3000m altitude north of Paro in Bhutan. A number of famous masters have [[meditated]] in caves near the current monastery: [[Guru Rinpoche]] in his manifestation of [[Dorje Drollö]] [[meditated]] on the [[Kagyé]] cycle. After him, many great masters followed, among them were [[Milarepa]], [[Padampa Sangye]], [[Machik Lapdrön]] and [[Thangtong Gyalpo]]. | ||
| − | + | Buddhist Temples and monasteries picsBuddhist Temples and monasteries pics | |
| − | == | + | ==Alternative Names== |
| + | *[[Taktshang Monastery]] | ||
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| + | {{RigpaWiki}} | ||
| + | {{NewSourceBreak}} | ||
| + | [[Paro Taktsang]] ([[spa phro stag tshang]] / [[spa gro stag tshang]]), is the popular [[Name]] of [[Taktsang Palphug Monastery]] (also known as The [[Tiger's Nest]]), a prominent [[Himalayan]] [[Buddhist]] [[sacred]] site and [[temple]] complex, located in the cliffside of the upper [[Paro]] valley, [[Bhutan]]. A [[temple]] complex was first built in 1692, around the [[Taktsang Senge Samdup]] ([[stag tshang seng ge bsam grub]]) {{Wiki|cave}} where [[Guru Padmasambhava]] is said to have [[meditated]] for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours in the 8th century. [[Padmasambhava]] is credited with introducing [[Buddhism]] to [[Bhutan]] and is the {{Wiki|tutelary}} [[Deity]] of The country. Today, [[Paro Taktsang]] is the best known of the thirteen [[taktsang]] or "[[tiger lair]]" [[Caves]] in which he [[meditated]]. | ||
| − | + | [[Taktsang Monastery]] also called [[Tiger Nest]] or [[Paro Taktsang]] (Wyl. ''[[spa gro stag tshang]]'') is situated on a nearly vertical cliff at 3000m altitude [[north]] of [[Wikipedia:Paro, Bhutan|Paro]] in [[Bhutan]]. A number of famous [[masters]] have [[meditated]] in [[caves]] near the current [[monastery]]: [[Guru Rinpoche]] in his [[manifestation]] of [[Dorje Drollö]] [[meditated]] on the [[Kagyé]] cycle. After him, many great [[masters]] followed, among them were [[Milarepa]], [[Padampa Sangye]], [[Machik Lapdrön]] and [[Thangtong Gyalpo]]. | |
| − | + | Use [http://earth.google.com Google Earth] for a [[view]] of the [[Taktsang]] area: [[media:taktsang.kmz|Taktsang Monastery]] | |
| − | + | The [[Guru mTshan-brgyad Lhakhang]], the [[temple]] devoted to [[Padmasambhava]] (also known as [[Gu-ru mTshan-brgyad Lhakhang]], "The [[Temple of the Guru with Eight Names]]") is an elegant structure built around the {{Wiki|cave}} in 1692 by [[Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye]]; and has become the {{Wiki|cultural}} icon of [[Bhutan]]. A popular {{Wiki|festival}}, known as the [[Tsechu]], held in honour of [[Padmasambhava]], is celebrated in the [[Paro]] valley sometime during March or April. | |
| − | + | == {{Wiki|History}} == | |
| − | === | + | === Background and {{Wiki|legends}} === |
| − | + | According to the legend related to this [[Taktsang]] (which in [[Tibetan]] [[Language]] is spelt ([[stag tshang]]) which literally means "[[Tiger's lair]]", it is believed that [[Padmasambhava]] ([[Guru Rinpoche]]) flew to this location from [[Tibet]] on the back of a tigress from [[Khenpajong]]. This place was [[consecrated]] to tame the {{Wiki|Tiger}} [[demon]]. | |
| − | + | An alternative legend holds that a former wife of an {{Wiki|emperor}}, known as [[Yeshe Tsogyal]], willingly became a [[Disciple]] of [[Guru Rinpoche]] (Padmasambahva) [[In Tibet]]. She [[transformed]] herself into a tigress and carried the [[Guru]] on her back from [[Tibet]] to the {{Wiki|present}} location of the [[Taktsang]] in [[Bhutan]]. In one of the [[Caves]] here, the [[Guru]] then performed [[Meditation]] and emerged in[[ [[eight incarnated forms]] ([[manifestations]]) and the place became {{Wiki|holy}}. Subsequently, the place came to be known as the “[[Tiger's Nest]]”. | |
| − | + | The popular legend of the [[Taktsang Monastery]] is further embellished with the story of [[Tenzin Rabgye]], who built the [[temple]] here in 1692. It has been mentioned by authors that the 8th century [[Guru]] [[Padmasambhava]] had {{Wiki|reincarnated}} again in the [[Form]] of [[Tenzin Rabgye]]. The corroborative proofs mooted are: that [[Tenzin Rabgye]] was seen (by his friends) concurrently inside and outside his {{Wiki|cave}}; even a small quantity of [[Food]] was adequate to feed all visitors; no one was injured during {{Wiki|worship}} (in [[spite]] of the approach track to the [[Monastery]] [[being]] [[dangerous]] and slippery); and the [[people]] of the [[Paro]] valley saw in the sky various [[animal]] [[forms]] and [[religious]] [[Symbols]] including a shower of [[Flowers]] that appeared and also vanished in the [[air]] without {{Wiki|touching}} the [[Earth]]. | |
| − | + | === Establishment as a [[Meditation]] site === | |
| − | + | As noted earlier, the [[Monastery]] was built around the [[Taktsang Senge Samdup]] ([[stag tshang seng ge bsam grub]]) {{Wiki|cave}}, where {{Wiki|custom}} holds that the [[Indian]] [[Guru]] [[Padmasambhava]] [[meditated]] in the 8th century. He flew to this place from [[Tibet]] on the back of [[Yeshe Tsogyal]], whom he [[transformed]] into a flying tigress for the [[purpose]] and landed at the cliff, which he "anointed" as the place for building a [[Monastery]]. He established [[Buddhism]] and the [[Nyingmapa]] school of [[Mahayana]] [[Buddhism in Bhutan]], and has been considered the “[[protector]] {{Wiki|saint}} of [[Bhutan]]”. Later, [[Padmasmbhava]] visited [[Bumthang]] district to subdue a {{Wiki|powerful}} [[Deity]] offended by a local [[king]]. [[Padmasambhava's]] [[Body]] imprint is stated to be imprinted on the wall of a {{Wiki|cave}} near [[Kurje Lhakhang temple]]. In 853, [[Langchen Pelkyi Singye]] came to the {{Wiki|cave}} to [[meditate]] and gave his [[Name]] of Pelphug to the {{Wiki|cave}}, "[[Pelkyi's cave]]". After he [[died]] later in [[Nepal]], his [[Body]] was said to have been miraculously returned to the [[Monastery]] by the grace of the [[Deity]] [[Dorje Legpa]]; it is now said to be sealed in a [[Chorten]] in a room to the left at the top of the entrance stairway. The [[Chorten]] was restored in 1982-83 and again in 2004. | |
| − | + | From the 11th century, many [[Tibetan]] {{Wiki|saints}} and {{Wiki|eminent}} figures came to [[Taktsang]] to [[meditate]], including [[Milarepa]] (1040–1123), [[Pha Dampa Sangye]] ([[died]] 1117), the [[Tibetan]] [[yogini]] [[Machig Labdrön]] (1055–1145) and [[Thangton Gyelpo]] (1385–1464). In the latter part of the 12th century, the [[Lapa School]] was established in [[Paro]]. Between 12th and 17th centuries, many [[Lamas]] who came from [[Tibet]] established their [[Monasteries in Bhutan]]. The first [[Sanctuary]] to be built in the area dates to the 14th century when [[Sonam Gyeltshen]], a [[Nyingmapa]] [[Lama]] of the [[Kathogpa]] branch came from [[Tibet]]. The paintings he brought can still be faintly discerned on a rock above the [[principal]] building although there is no trace of the original one. The [[Taktsang Ugyen Tsemo]] complex, which was rebuilt after a [[Fire]] in 1958 is said to date back to 1408. [[Taktsang]] remained under the authority of the [[Kathogpa]] [[lamas]] for centuries until the mid 17th century. | |
| − | === | + | === 17th century to {{Wiki|present}}: The {{Wiki|modern}} [[Monastery]] === |
| − | + | In the 17th century the well-known [[Tertön]] [[Pema Lingpa]] of [[Bumthang]], who founded many [[Monasteries]] in various parts of [[Bhutan]], was also instrumental in creating [[religious]] and {{Wiki|secular}} dance [[forms]] from his {{Wiki|conception}} of the '[[Zandog Pelri]]' (the [[Copper Coloured mountain]]), which was the [[abode]] of the [[Guru]] [[Padmasambhava]] (which is the same place as the [[Paro Taktsang]] or [[Tiger's nest]]). This dance is performed in [[Paro]] as the [[Tsche festival]]. But it was during the [[Time]] of [[Ngawang Namgyal]] of the [[Drukpa]] sub sect, who fled [[Tibet]] to escape persecution by the opposing sect of the [[Gelugpa Order]] (which dominated [[Tibet]] under the [[Dalai Lamas]]), that an administrative {{Wiki|mechanism}} was established in [[Bhutan]]. | |
| − | == Geography == | + | In due [[Time]], he established himself in [[Bhutan]] as a 'model of rulership' and was known as the "[[Shabdrung]]" with full authority. He wanted to establish an edifice at the [[Taktsang Pel Phuk]] site. It was during a [[Tibetan]] invasion of [[Bhutan]] in 1644-46 that [[Shabdrung]] and his [[Tibetan]] [[Nyingmapa]] [[Teacher]] [[gTer-ston Rig-’dzin sNying-po]] had invoked [[Padmasambhava]] and the [[Protective deities]] at [[Taktsang]] to give them [[success]] over the invaders. He performed the [[bka’ brgyad dgongs ’dus]] [[Rituals]] associated with the {{Wiki|celebrations}} of [[Tshechu]]. [[Bhutan]] won the [[War]] against [[Tibet]] However, [[Shabdrung]] was not able to build a [[temple]] at [[Takstsang]] to celebrate the event, even though he very much wanted to do so. |
| + | |||
| + | The wish of [[Shabdrung]] to build a [[temple]] here, however, was fulfilled during the 4th [[Druk Desi Tenzin Rabgye]] (1638–96), the first, and only successor of [[Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel]] ([[Zhabs-drung Ngag-dbang rNam-rgyal]]), "a distant cousin from a collateral line descending from the 15th century ‘crazy {{Wiki|saint}}’ [[Drukpa Kunley]]". During his visit to the [[sacred]] {{Wiki|cave}} of [[Taktsang Pel Phuk]] during the [[Tshechu]] season of 1692 he laid the foundation for building the [[temple]] dedicated to [[Guru Rinpoche]] called the ‘[[Temple of the Guru with Eight Names]]’ (’[[gu ru mtshan brgyad Lha-khang]]). It was a decision taken by [[Tenzin Rabgye]] while [[standing]] at the {{Wiki|cave}} overlooking the [[Paro]] valley. At this [[Time]], he was leading the [[Tshechu festival]] of [[religious]] dances. At that [[Time]] the only [[temples]] reported to be in [[existence]], at [[higher]] elevations, were the [[Zangdo Pelri]] ([[Zongs mdog dPalri]]) and Oxygen Tsemo ([[Urgyan rTse-mo]]). | ||
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| + | === Destruction due to [[Fire]] === | ||
| + | |||
| + | On April 19, 1998, a [[Fire]] broke out in the main building of the [[Monastery]] complex, which contained valuable paintings, {{Wiki|artifacts}} and [[Statues]]. The [[Fire]] is believed to have been [[caused]] by electrical short-circuiting or flickering [[butter lamps]] lighting the hanging tapestries. A [[Monk]] also [[died]] during the [[Fire]]. The restoration works were undertaken at an estimated cost of 135 million ngultrum. The Government of [[Bhutan]] and the then [[King]] of [[Bhutan]], {{Wiki|Jigme Singye Wangchuck}}, oversaw the restoration of the damaged [[Monastery]] and its contents in 2005. | ||
| + | |||
| + | == {{Wiki|Geography}} == | ||
[[File:Taktshang_(Tiger's_Nest)_Monastery.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Taktshang_(Tiger's_Nest)_Monastery.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
| − | The | + | The [[Monastery]] is located 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) to the {{Wiki|north}} of [[Paro]] and hangs on a precipitous cliff at 3,120 metres (10,240 ft), about 900 metres (3,000 ft) above the [[Paro]] valley, on the Right side of the [[Paro]] Chu (‘chu’ {{Wiki|Bhutanese}} means ”[[River]] or [[water]]”.). The rock slopes are very steep (almost vertical) and the [[Monastery]] buildings are built into the rock face. Though it looks formidable, the [[Monastery]] complex has access from several [[Directions]], such as the {{Wiki|northwest}} [[Path]] through the {{Wiki|forest}}, from the {{Wiki|south}} along the [[Path]] used by {{Wiki|devotees}}, and from the {{Wiki|north}} (access over the rocky plateau, which is called the “Hundred Thousand {{Wiki|Fairies}}” known as [[Bumda]] ([[hBum-brag]]). A mule track leading to it passes through pine {{Wiki|forest}} that is colourfully festooned with moss and [[Prayer]] flags. On many days, clouds shroud the [[Monastery]] and give an eerie [[Feeling]] of remoteness. |
| − | On the approach | + | On the approach [[Path]] to the [[Monastery]], there is a Lakhang (village level [[Monastery]]) and a [[temple]] of [[Urgyan Tsemo]] ("[[U-rgyan rTse-mo]]") which, like the main [[Monastery]], is located on a rocky plateau with a precipitous projection of several hundred feet over the valley. From this location, the [[Monastery]]’s buildings are on the {{Wiki|opposite}} ravine, which is known by the [[Name]] “[[Copper-Coloured Mountain]] [[Paradise]] of [[Padmasambhava]]”. This is the [[view]] point for visitors and there is a cafeteria to provide refreshments. The trek [[beyond]] this point is very scenic with the [[Sound]] of the [[water]] fall breaking the [[Silence]]. |
| − | Along the trek route blue pine | + | Along the trek route blue pine [[Trees]], [[Prayer]] flags and kiosks selling {{Wiki|paraphernalia}} for {{Wiki|worship}} (such as [[Prayer Wheels]], [[temple]] [[bells]] and skulls) are seen. The route is scattered with number of [[temples]]. On this [[Path]], a large [[water]] fall, which drops by 60 metres (200 ft) into a [[sacred]] pool, is forded over by a bridge. The track terminates at the main [[Monastery]] where colourful paintings are displayed. [[Guru Rinpoche]]'s {{Wiki|cave}} where he [[meditated]] is also seen. This {{Wiki|cave}} is opened for public viewing only once a year. |
== Structure == | == Structure == | ||
=== Exterior === | === Exterior === | ||
| − | The | + | The [[Monastery]] buildings consist of four main [[temples]] and residential shelters ideally designed by adapting to the rock (granite) ledges, the [[Caves]] and the rocky terrain. Out of the eight [[Caves]], four are comparatively easy to access. The {{Wiki|cave}} where [[Padmasamabhava]] first entered, riding the {{Wiki|Tiger}}, is known as 'Tholu Phuk' and the original {{Wiki|cave}} where he resided and did [[Meditation]] is known as the 'Pel Phuk'. He directed the [[spiritually]] [[Enlightened]] [[Monks]] to build the [[Monastery]] here. The [[Monastery]] is so precariously perched that it is said: "it clings to the side of the mountain like a gecko". The main {{Wiki|cave}} is entered through a narrow passage. The dark {{Wiki|cave}} houses a dozen images of [[Bodhisattvas]] and [[butter lamps]] flicker in front of these idols. An elegant {{Wiki|image}} of [[Chenrezig]] ([[Avalokitesvara]]) is also deified here. In an adjoining small cell, the [[sacred]] [[Scripture]] is placed; the importance of this [[Scripture]] is that it has been scripted with {{Wiki|gold}} dust and the crushed bone powder of a [[divine]] [[Lama]]. It is also said that the [[Monks]] who practice [[Vajrayana Buddhism]] (the formal State [[Religion]] of [[Bhutan]]) at this {{Wiki|cave}} [[Monastery]] [[live]] here for three years and seldom go down to the [[Paro]] valley. |
| − | All the buildings are interconnected through steps and stairways made in rocks. There are a few rickety wooden | + | All the buildings are interconnected through steps and stairways made in rocks. There are a few rickety wooden [[Bridges]] along the [[paths]] and stairways also to cross over. The [[temple]] at the [[highest]] level has a frieze of [[Buddha]]. Each building has a balcony, which provides lovely [[views]] of the scenic [[Paro]] valley down below. The [[Monasteries]] have {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|history}} of {{Wiki|occupation}} by [[Monks]], as hermitages. |
=== Other structures within the precincts === | === Other structures within the precincts === | ||
[[File:Taktsang_prayer_wheel.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Taktsang_prayer_wheel.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
| − | Taktshang Zangdo Pari is the place where | + | [[Taktshang Zangdo Pari]] is the place where [[Padmasambhava’s]] wife, known as the “[[Fairy of Wisdom]]”, [[Yashe Tshogyal]] ([[Ye-shes mtsho-rgyal]]), the founder of the Mon, a convent, by the same [[Name]] as [[Taktshang]] and also two other convents. The {{Wiki|present}} caretaker of the place is said to be an old [[Nun]] supported by a young trainee. |
| − | Another important place near the shrine is the Urgyan Tsemo, the | + | Another important place near the [[shrine]] is the [[Urgyan Tsemo]], the “[[Peak of Urgyan]]” which has a small [[Mani Lakhang]]. The [[Prayer]] [[Wheel]], turned by an old [[Monk]], resounds with chimes that are [[heard]] every day at 4 am. Above the Urgyan is the {{Wiki|holy}} {{Wiki|cave}} [[temple]] known as '[[Phaphug Lakhang]]' ([[dPal-phug IHa-khang]]), which is the main [[shrine]] of the [[Taktshang]]. It is also the residence of the {{Wiki|Head}} [[Lama]], [[Karma Thupden Chokyi Nyenci]]. |
=== Paintings === | === Paintings === | ||
| − | The | + | The “[[Copper-Coloured Mountain Paradise]] of [[Padmasambhava]]” ([[Zangdopari]]) is vividly displayed in a [[Heart]] [[shape]] on every [[thangkha]] and also painted on the walls of the [[Monastery]] as a [[Constant]] reminder of the legend. The paintings are set on a pedestal that represents the [[Realm]] of the [[King]] of [[Nagas]] amidst [[Dakinis]] ([[mKha-hgro-ma]]), and the pinnacle in the painting denotes the domain of [[Brahma]]. The paintings also depict [[Klu]] ([[Naga]]) demi [[Gods]] with a [[human]] {{Wiki|head}} and the [[Body]] of a [[serpent]], which are said to reside in lakes (said to denote that they are guarding the hidden [[treasures]]). Allegorically, they mean to represent the [[Spiritual]] {{Wiki|holy}} writings. The paintings also show what is termed as “[[Walkers in the Sky]]” ([[mKha-hgro-ma]]). |
| − | The holy hill is drawn in the backdrop with four faces painted with different colours – the east face is in crystal white colour, the south face is yellow, the west is in red colour and the north has green colour. The palace has four sides and eight corners with its lower and upper tiers adorned with jewels. The courtyard with four enclosures is said to represent four kinds of conduct. The walls are built with bricks, balconies have been bejewelled with religious | + | The {{Wiki|holy}} hill is drawn in the backdrop with four faces painted with different colours – the {{Wiki|east}} face is in {{Wiki|crystal}} white {{Wiki|colour}}, the {{Wiki|south}} face is yellow, the {{Wiki|west}} is in red {{Wiki|colour}} and the {{Wiki|north}} has green {{Wiki|colour}}. The palace has four sides and eight corners with its lower and upper tiers adorned with [[jewels]]. The courtyard with four enclosures is said to represent four kinds of conduct. The walls are built with bricks, balconies have been bejewelled with [[religious]] [[Symbols]]. The ambience is shown in the [[Form]] of wishing [[Trees]], fountains of the [[water]] of [[Life]], [[Rain]] bows in five colours with cloud [[formations]] and [[Light]] [[emanating]] from [[Lotus]] [[Flowers]]. The palace is also shown with a [[throne]] with eight corners fully and curiously bejewelled. [[Padmasmbhava]] is shown sitting on a [[pure]] stalk of [[Lotus]] emitting [[divine]] [[energy]] appearing “[[divine]], charitable, {{Wiki|powerful}} or fierce”. |
| − | Further detailing depicted on the four faces and eight corners, are five kinds of Buddhas suppressing the vicious demons (performing four pious deeds) and placed on thrones that are mounted over the stooping demons. The demons and Khadoms are depicted adorned and seated on four petalled and four faced thrones “adorned with necromantic | + | Further detailing depicted on the four faces and eight corners, are five kinds of [[Buddhas]] suppressing the vicious [[demons]] (performing four pious [[deeds]]) and placed on thrones that are mounted over the stooping [[demons]]. The [[demons]] and [[Khadoms]] are depicted adorned and seated on four petalled and four faced thrones “adorned with {{Wiki|necromantic}} [[attributes]]” enjoying a good [[Time]]; the [[Khadoms]] are seen on the four sided courtyard of the palace and also on all side walls. |
| − | The scene is further embellished around the Guru Rinpoche ( | + | The scene is further embellished around the [[Guru Rinpoche]] ([[Padmasambhava]]) {{Wiki|image}} and also in the palace, with [[Gods]] and [[Goddesses]] in the [[Heavens]], with [[gate keepers]] at the four gates with an {{Wiki|army}} of [[messengers]] and servants; all trying to crush the [[demons]] to dust. The supporting [[Staff]] shown are said to represent the [[Himalayan]] tribes of pre-[[Buddhist]] periods. |
{{W}} | {{W}} | ||
Latest revision as of 15:25, 8 July 2014
Taktsang Monastery also called Tiger Nest or Paro Taktsang (Wyl. spa gro stag tshang) is situated on a nearly vertical cliff at 3000m altitude north of Paro in Bhutan. A number of famous masters have meditated in caves near the current monastery: Guru Rinpoche in his manifestation of Dorje Drollö meditated on the Kagyé cycle. After him, many great masters followed, among them were Milarepa, Padampa Sangye, Machik Lapdrön and Thangtong Gyalpo.
Buddhist Temples and monasteries picsBuddhist Temples and monasteries pics
Alternative Names
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Paro Taktsang (spa phro stag tshang / spa gro stag tshang), is the popular Name of Taktsang Palphug Monastery (also known as The Tiger's Nest), a prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site and temple complex, located in the cliffside of the upper Paro valley, Bhutan. A temple complex was first built in 1692, around the Taktsang Senge Samdup (stag tshang seng ge bsam grub) cave where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated for three years, three months, three weeks, three days and three hours in the 8th century. Padmasambhava is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan and is the tutelary Deity of The country. Today, Paro Taktsang is the best known of the thirteen taktsang or "tiger lair" Caves in which he meditated.
Taktsang Monastery also called Tiger Nest or Paro Taktsang (Wyl. spa gro stag tshang) is situated on a nearly vertical cliff at 3000m altitude north of Paro in Bhutan. A number of famous masters have meditated in caves near the current monastery: Guru Rinpoche in his manifestation of Dorje Drollö meditated on the Kagyé cycle. After him, many great masters followed, among them were Milarepa, Padampa Sangye, Machik Lapdrön and Thangtong Gyalpo.
Use Google Earth for a view of the Taktsang area: Taktsang Monastery
The Guru mTshan-brgyad Lhakhang, the temple devoted to Padmasambhava (also known as Gu-ru mTshan-brgyad Lhakhang, "The Temple of the Guru with Eight Names") is an elegant structure built around the cave in 1692 by Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye; and has become the cultural icon of Bhutan. A popular festival, known as the Tsechu, held in honour of Padmasambhava, is celebrated in the Paro valley sometime during March or April.
History
Background and legends
According to the legend related to this Taktsang (which in Tibetan Language is spelt (stag tshang) which literally means "Tiger's lair", it is believed that Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) flew to this location from Tibet on the back of a tigress from Khenpajong. This place was consecrated to tame the Tiger demon.
An alternative legend holds that a former wife of an emperor, known as Yeshe Tsogyal, willingly became a Disciple of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambahva) In Tibet. She transformed herself into a tigress and carried the Guru on her back from Tibet to the present location of the Taktsang in Bhutan. In one of the Caves here, the Guru then performed Meditation and emerged in[[ eight incarnated forms (manifestations) and the place became holy. Subsequently, the place came to be known as the “Tiger's Nest”.
The popular legend of the Taktsang Monastery is further embellished with the story of Tenzin Rabgye, who built the temple here in 1692. It has been mentioned by authors that the 8th century Guru Padmasambhava had reincarnated again in the Form of Tenzin Rabgye. The corroborative proofs mooted are: that Tenzin Rabgye was seen (by his friends) concurrently inside and outside his cave; even a small quantity of Food was adequate to feed all visitors; no one was injured during worship (in spite of the approach track to the Monastery being dangerous and slippery); and the people of the Paro valley saw in the sky various animal forms and religious Symbols including a shower of Flowers that appeared and also vanished in the air without touching the Earth.
Establishment as a Meditation site
As noted earlier, the Monastery was built around the Taktsang Senge Samdup (stag tshang seng ge bsam grub) cave, where custom holds that the Indian Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century. He flew to this place from Tibet on the back of Yeshe Tsogyal, whom he transformed into a flying tigress for the purpose and landed at the cliff, which he "anointed" as the place for building a Monastery. He established Buddhism and the Nyingmapa school of Mahayana Buddhism in Bhutan, and has been considered the “protector saint of Bhutan”. Later, Padmasmbhava visited Bumthang district to subdue a powerful Deity offended by a local king. Padmasambhava's Body imprint is stated to be imprinted on the wall of a cave near Kurje Lhakhang temple. In 853, Langchen Pelkyi Singye came to the cave to meditate and gave his Name of Pelphug to the cave, "Pelkyi's cave". After he died later in Nepal, his Body was said to have been miraculously returned to the Monastery by the grace of the Deity Dorje Legpa; it is now said to be sealed in a Chorten in a room to the left at the top of the entrance stairway. The Chorten was restored in 1982-83 and again in 2004.
From the 11th century, many Tibetan saints and eminent figures came to Taktsang to meditate, including Milarepa (1040–1123), Pha Dampa Sangye (died 1117), the Tibetan yogini Machig Labdrön (1055–1145) and Thangton Gyelpo (1385–1464). In the latter part of the 12th century, the Lapa School was established in Paro. Between 12th and 17th centuries, many Lamas who came from Tibet established their Monasteries in Bhutan. The first Sanctuary to be built in the area dates to the 14th century when Sonam Gyeltshen, a Nyingmapa Lama of the Kathogpa branch came from Tibet. The paintings he brought can still be faintly discerned on a rock above the principal building although there is no trace of the original one. The Taktsang Ugyen Tsemo complex, which was rebuilt after a Fire in 1958 is said to date back to 1408. Taktsang remained under the authority of the Kathogpa lamas for centuries until the mid 17th century.
17th century to present: The modern Monastery
In the 17th century the well-known Tertön Pema Lingpa of Bumthang, who founded many Monasteries in various parts of Bhutan, was also instrumental in creating religious and secular dance forms from his conception of the 'Zandog Pelri' (the Copper Coloured mountain), which was the abode of the Guru Padmasambhava (which is the same place as the Paro Taktsang or Tiger's nest). This dance is performed in Paro as the Tsche festival. But it was during the Time of Ngawang Namgyal of the Drukpa sub sect, who fled Tibet to escape persecution by the opposing sect of the Gelugpa Order (which dominated Tibet under the Dalai Lamas), that an administrative mechanism was established in Bhutan.
In due Time, he established himself in Bhutan as a 'model of rulership' and was known as the "Shabdrung" with full authority. He wanted to establish an edifice at the Taktsang Pel Phuk site. It was during a Tibetan invasion of Bhutan in 1644-46 that Shabdrung and his Tibetan Nyingmapa Teacher gTer-ston Rig-’dzin sNying-po had invoked Padmasambhava and the Protective deities at Taktsang to give them success over the invaders. He performed the bka’ brgyad dgongs ’dus Rituals associated with the celebrations of Tshechu. Bhutan won the War against Tibet However, Shabdrung was not able to build a temple at Takstsang to celebrate the event, even though he very much wanted to do so.
The wish of Shabdrung to build a temple here, however, was fulfilled during the 4th Druk Desi Tenzin Rabgye (1638–96), the first, and only successor of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (Zhabs-drung Ngag-dbang rNam-rgyal), "a distant cousin from a collateral line descending from the 15th century ‘crazy saint’ Drukpa Kunley". During his visit to the sacred cave of Taktsang Pel Phuk during the Tshechu season of 1692 he laid the foundation for building the temple dedicated to Guru Rinpoche called the ‘Temple of the Guru with Eight Names’ (’gu ru mtshan brgyad Lha-khang). It was a decision taken by Tenzin Rabgye while standing at the cave overlooking the Paro valley. At this Time, he was leading the Tshechu festival of religious dances. At that Time the only temples reported to be in existence, at higher elevations, were the Zangdo Pelri (Zongs mdog dPalri) and Oxygen Tsemo (Urgyan rTse-mo).
Destruction due to Fire
On April 19, 1998, a Fire broke out in the main building of the Monastery complex, which contained valuable paintings, artifacts and Statues. The Fire is believed to have been caused by electrical short-circuiting or flickering butter lamps lighting the hanging tapestries. A Monk also died during the Fire. The restoration works were undertaken at an estimated cost of 135 million ngultrum. The Government of Bhutan and the then King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, oversaw the restoration of the damaged Monastery and its contents in 2005.
Geography
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The Monastery is located 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) to the north of Paro and hangs on a precipitous cliff at 3,120 metres (10,240 ft), about 900 metres (3,000 ft) above the Paro valley, on the Right side of the Paro Chu (‘chu’ Bhutanese means ”River or water”.). The rock slopes are very steep (almost vertical) and the Monastery buildings are built into the rock face. Though it looks formidable, the Monastery complex has access from several Directions, such as the northwest Path through the forest, from the south along the Path used by devotees, and from the north (access over the rocky plateau, which is called the “Hundred Thousand Fairies” known as Bumda (hBum-brag). A mule track leading to it passes through pine forest that is colourfully festooned with moss and Prayer flags. On many days, clouds shroud the Monastery and give an eerie Feeling of remoteness.
On the approach Path to the Monastery, there is a Lakhang (village level Monastery) and a temple of Urgyan Tsemo ("U-rgyan rTse-mo") which, like the main Monastery, is located on a rocky plateau with a precipitous projection of several hundred feet over the valley. From this location, the Monastery’s buildings are on the opposite ravine, which is known by the Name “Copper-Coloured Mountain Paradise of Padmasambhava”. This is the view point for visitors and there is a cafeteria to provide refreshments. The trek beyond this point is very scenic with the Sound of the water fall breaking the Silence. Along the trek route blue pine Trees, Prayer flags and kiosks selling paraphernalia for worship (such as Prayer Wheels, temple bells and skulls) are seen. The route is scattered with number of temples. On this Path, a large water fall, which drops by 60 metres (200 ft) into a sacred pool, is forded over by a bridge. The track terminates at the main Monastery where colourful paintings are displayed. Guru Rinpoche's cave where he meditated is also seen. This cave is opened for public viewing only once a year.
Structure
Exterior
The Monastery buildings consist of four main temples and residential shelters ideally designed by adapting to the rock (granite) ledges, the Caves and the rocky terrain. Out of the eight Caves, four are comparatively easy to access. The cave where Padmasamabhava first entered, riding the Tiger, is known as 'Tholu Phuk' and the original cave where he resided and did Meditation is known as the 'Pel Phuk'. He directed the spiritually Enlightened Monks to build the Monastery here. The Monastery is so precariously perched that it is said: "it clings to the side of the mountain like a gecko". The main cave is entered through a narrow passage. The dark cave houses a dozen images of Bodhisattvas and butter lamps flicker in front of these idols. An elegant image of Chenrezig (Avalokitesvara) is also deified here. In an adjoining small cell, the sacred Scripture is placed; the importance of this Scripture is that it has been scripted with gold dust and the crushed bone powder of a divine Lama. It is also said that the Monks who practice Vajrayana Buddhism (the formal State Religion of Bhutan) at this cave Monastery live here for three years and seldom go down to the Paro valley.
All the buildings are interconnected through steps and stairways made in rocks. There are a few rickety wooden Bridges along the paths and stairways also to cross over. The temple at the highest level has a frieze of Buddha. Each building has a balcony, which provides lovely views of the scenic Paro valley down below. The Monasteries have ancient history of occupation by Monks, as hermitages.
Other structures within the precincts
Taktshang Zangdo Pari is the place where Padmasambhava’s wife, known as the “Fairy of Wisdom”, Yashe Tshogyal (Ye-shes mtsho-rgyal), the founder of the Mon, a convent, by the same Name as Taktshang and also two other convents. The present caretaker of the place is said to be an old Nun supported by a young trainee.
Another important place near the shrine is the Urgyan Tsemo, the “Peak of Urgyan” which has a small Mani Lakhang. The Prayer Wheel, turned by an old Monk, resounds with chimes that are heard every day at 4 am. Above the Urgyan is the holy cave temple known as 'Phaphug Lakhang' (dPal-phug IHa-khang), which is the main shrine of the Taktshang. It is also the residence of the Head Lama, Karma Thupden Chokyi Nyenci.
Paintings
The “Copper-Coloured Mountain Paradise of Padmasambhava” (Zangdopari) is vividly displayed in a Heart shape on every thangkha and also painted on the walls of the Monastery as a Constant reminder of the legend. The paintings are set on a pedestal that represents the Realm of the King of Nagas amidst Dakinis (mKha-hgro-ma), and the pinnacle in the painting denotes the domain of Brahma. The paintings also depict Klu (Naga) demi Gods with a human head and the Body of a serpent, which are said to reside in lakes (said to denote that they are guarding the hidden treasures). Allegorically, they mean to represent the Spiritual holy writings. The paintings also show what is termed as “Walkers in the Sky” (mKha-hgro-ma).
The holy hill is drawn in the backdrop with four faces painted with different colours – the east face is in crystal white colour, the south face is yellow, the west is in red colour and the north has green colour. The palace has four sides and eight corners with its lower and upper tiers adorned with jewels. The courtyard with four enclosures is said to represent four kinds of conduct. The walls are built with bricks, balconies have been bejewelled with religious Symbols. The ambience is shown in the Form of wishing Trees, fountains of the water of Life, Rain bows in five colours with cloud formations and Light emanating from Lotus Flowers. The palace is also shown with a throne with eight corners fully and curiously bejewelled. Padmasmbhava is shown sitting on a pure stalk of Lotus emitting divine energy appearing “divine, charitable, powerful or fierce”.
Further detailing depicted on the four faces and eight corners, are five kinds of Buddhas suppressing the vicious demons (performing four pious deeds) and placed on thrones that are mounted over the stooping demons. The demons and Khadoms are depicted adorned and seated on four petalled and four faced thrones “adorned with necromantic attributes” enjoying a good Time; the Khadoms are seen on the four sided courtyard of the palace and also on all side walls.
The scene is further embellished around the Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) image and also in the palace, with Gods and Goddesses in the Heavens, with gate keepers at the four gates with an army of messengers and servants; all trying to crush the demons to dust. The supporting Staff shown are said to represent the Himalayan tribes of pre-Buddhist periods.
