Lamayuru Monastery
Lamayuru Monastery, also known as Yuru Monastery, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in the Leh district of Ladakh, India. It holds historical significance as one of the oldest and largest monasteries in the region, originally serving as a Bon monastery before its affiliation with the Drikung Kagyu school of Buddhism.
Key Facts
- ›Originally a foremost Bon monastery in Ladakh, its name translates to 'Eternal Monastery' and features the swastika symbol.
- ›Tradition attributes its founding to the Indian Buddhist Mahasiddha Naropa, who is said to have dried up a lake to establish the monastery.
- ›The oldest surviving building, Seng-ge-sgang temple, is attributed to the renowned builder-monk Rinchen Zangpo.
- ›Lamayuru Monastery is affiliated with the Drikung Kagyu school of Buddhism.
- ›It is one of the largest and oldest gompas in Ladakh, currently housing around 150 permanent monks.
- ›The monastery hosts two annual masked dance festivals, bringing together monks from surrounding gompas.
Important Relationships
- Naropa
- Rinchen Zangpo
- Meditation Cave of Naropa
- Moonscape-Like Rocky Appearance of the Surrounding Area
About Lamayuru Monastery
Lamayuru Monastery, also known as Yuru Monastery, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated in the village of Lamayouro within the Leh district of Ladakh, India. Its name, "Yuru" or "Eternal Monastery," reflects its historical importance and the prevalent use of the swastika symbol in Bon culture. The monastery is built around natural caves, some of which were inhabited by monks for meditation, including the renowned "meditation cave of Naropa" preserved within its central hall.
History and Affiliation
According to popular tradition, Lamayuru Monastery was originally the foremost Bon monastery in Ladakh. The Drikung Kagyu history states that the Indian scholar Naropa (956-1041 CE) is credited with founding the monastery, allegedly by causing a lake that filled the valley to dry up. The oldest surviving building, the Seng-ge-sgang temple, is attributed to the famous builder-monk Rinchen Zangpo (958-1055 CE), who was tasked by the king of Ladakh to construct numerous gompas.
Historically, the oldest gompas in Ladakh, including Lamayuru, predated the establishment of major Tibetan Buddhist schools. They were at some point taken over by the Ka-dam-pa tradition, and later, largely by the Ge-lugs-pa school. Lamayuru Monastery, however, became associated with the Dri-gung-pa (Drikung Kagyu).
Features and Significance
Lamayuru is recognized as one of the largest and oldest gompas in Ladakh. It currently serves as a residence for around 150 permanent monks, though in the past, it has housed up to 400. The monastery is notable for its dramatic setting amidst a landscape popular among tourists for its moonscape-like rocky appearance. It is also situated on the NH1 Srinagar-Leh Highway, making it accessible.
Two annual masked dance festivals are hosted at Lamayuru Monastery, occurring in the second and fifth months of the Tibetan lunar calendar. These festivals are significant events where monks from surrounding gompas gather for prayer.
Key Figures and Architecture
Prominent figures associated with Lamayuru Monastery include Naropa, traditionally credited with its founding, and Rinchen Zangpo, to whom the oldest surviving temple, Seng-ge-sgang, is attributed. The original gompa consisted of five buildings, with remnants of four corner structures still visible today. The monastery's location at a height of 3,510 meters (11,520 ft) adds to its striking presence in the Himalayan landscape.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical origin of Lamayuru Monastery?
Popular tradition suggests Lamayuru Monastery was initially the foremost Bon monastery in Ladakh. It is also believed to have been founded by the Indian scholar Naropa, who is credited with drying up a lake to establish the site. The oldest surviving structure is attributed to Rinchen Zangpo.
What Buddhist affiliation does Lamayuru Monastery have?
While originally a Bon monastery, Lamayuru Monastery is currently affiliated with the Drikung Kagyu school of Buddhism. Historically, older gompas in the region, including Lamayuru, predated established Tibetan schools and were later taken over by various traditions.
What are some of the notable historical architectural elements of Lamayuru Monastery?
The oldest surviving building at Lamayuru is a temple called Seng-ge-sgang, located at the southern end of the Lamayuru rock. This structure is attributed to Rinchen Zangpo. The original gompa comprised five buildings, with remains of the four corner structures still visible.
What is the current size and monastic population of Lamayuru Monastery?
Lamayuru Monastery is one of the largest and oldest gompas in Ladakh. It currently has a population of approximately 150 permanent monks in residence, though it has housed up to 400 monks in the past.
Are there any special festivals or events held at Lamayuru Monastery?
Yes, Lamayuru Monastery hosts two annual masked dance festivals. These events take place in the second and fifth months of the Tibetan lunar calendar, and they attract monks from surrounding gompas for prayer.
Related Buddhist Temples
Phyang Monastery
Phyang Monastery, also known locally as Gangon Tashi Chodzong, is a significant Buddhist monastery situated in Fiang village, west of Leh in Ladakh, India. Established in 1515, it holds historical importance as one of the earliest Drikung Kagyu monasteries in the region and serves as a repository of ancient religious art and artifacts.
Chemrey Monastery
Chemrey Monastery, also known as Chemrey Gompa, is a significant Buddhist monastery located in the Indus River valley of Ladakh, India. Founded in 1664 by Lama Tagsang Raschen and dedicated to King Sengge Namgyal, it belongs to the Drugpa monastic order and is known for its impressive Padmasambhava statue and a valuable collection of scriptures.
Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery is the oldest and largest Buddhist monastery in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh, belonging to the Gelugpa sect. Founded in the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo, it holds significant religious and cultural importance, serving as a center for festivals and education for local Tibetan children.