Yagang Lhakhang, Buddhist monastery in Mongar, Bhutan
Yagang Lhakhang is a monastery that rises from a meadow on the outskirts of Mongar village in eastern Bhutan, marked by a distinctive square base and traditional architectural design. The building houses a collection of xylograph blocks used for printing prayer flags and religious texts, maintaining historical Buddhist practices.
The monastery was founded in the 16th century by Sangdag, son of the religious teacher Pema Lingpa, who had major influence on Bhutan's Buddhist tradition. Since its establishment, the site has preserved religious artifacts that connect to the founder's spiritual lineage.
The monastery comes alive during the three-day tshechu festival in the fifth lunar month, when the community gathers to perform ritual Cham dances and religious ceremonies. This annual celebration draws pilgrims and visitors seeking to witness the spiritual heart of the local religious calendar.
The monastery sits in a quiet location in the hills east of the village and requires a walk through open countryside to reach it. The ground can become muddy or slippery, especially during the rainy season, so sturdy footwear and time for exploration are important.
Inside stands a sacred Buddha statue that the religious teacher discovered in the natural spring Mebartso in Bumthang and which is now venerated as one of the site's most precious relics. The monastery also maintains a ceremonial dagger handcrafted by the founder himself, embodying the spiritual power of the lineage.
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