 | Rigzin Phodrang Monastery, Nepal
Rigzin Phodrang Buddhist Mahayana monastery belongs to the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery was established in the year 1980 under the supervision of Ven. Ralo Rinpoche and his consort Tenzin Dolma. It is situated at the midst of the forest just 50 metros below Asura Cave, a holy cave of Guru Rinpoche.
The monastery is located 10km. Northwest of Kathmandu city in Sheshnarayan municipality in Pharping village. It is surrounded by several holy places of Hindu as well as Buddhist.
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Rigzin Phodrang Buddhist monastery is divided into two sections, the main monastery and the Retreat Center. The Retreat center is under the guidance of Ven. Khyungtrul Rinpoche, who is the son of Ven. Ralo Rinpoche and Tenzin Dolma, and is the reincarnation of late Ven. Kyapgon Kongtrul of Tibet. Due to his young age both monasteries are administered by the head Lama Ralo Rinpoche.
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 | The name of the Retreat Center is ‘Drubdhe Chemmo Thegchok Rabgyeling’. This is three-storey building with long C-shaped Monastery style and colorful paint in front. The ground floor of the building is meant for strict retreat and the first and second floors are assigned as rooms for high Lamas and guests. At present there are ten monks who are in strict retreat for three years and three months. They are kept away from outside disturbances. Additionally, there are seven other monks and laymen who are practicing a less strict form of retreat. The retreat center is off-ground for outsiders. |
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There are around 50 monks in the main monastery ranging from 9 to 25 years of age. There is a magnificent image of Guru Rinpoche that is featured on both sides. The prayer hall accommodates around 20 monks at a time.
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 | The main hall is open from 5.30 A.M. To 12 Noon and 12.30 P.M. To 6.30 P.M.
The monastery holds special prayer ceremony on the tenth day of the tenth month, according to the Tibetan calendar. This is regarded as the birth-date of Guru Rinpoche.
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| This picture on right side shows Rigzin Phodrang Stupa in Nepal. |  |
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 | This picture on left side shows vajra dance by H. E. Khyungtrul Rinpoche.
RIGDZIN PHODRANG BUDDHIST MONASTERY
SARSWATTI-STHAN, GPO BOX 3501, PHARPING, KATHMANDU, NEPAL |
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