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Journey to Nepal with Lama Lakshey Zangpo – Megan Larson

December 29, 2024
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by Megan Larson: Lama Lakshey Zangpo has returned to the mystical realm of Nepal,

undertaking a sacred pilgrimage to venerate the ancient sites deeply intertwined with Guru Rinpoche (also known as Padmasambhava ). In Tibetan, Guru Rinpoche, means “precious master.” Guru Rinpoche is known as being a fully awakened one, a buddha. Through his form, primordial wisdom manifests in the world past, present and future to benefit all sentient beings. This year, driven by a heartfelt request, Lama extends a unique invitation to you: join him on this spiritual journey, vicariously experiencing the profound blessings through images, and journal descriptions.

As you delve into this digital pilgrimage, you’ll be transported to breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and sacred caves, each imbued with the rich history and spiritual energy of the Himalayan region. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature, the profound teachings of the Dharma, and the unwavering devotion of the practitioners past present and future.

Sarva Mangalam!

Day 1 Namo Buddha

Lama Lakshey visited the revered site of Namo Buddha. Here, Lama explained the profound narrative of the Buddha’s ultimate act of generosity, wherein he offered his own body to a starving tigress. The story recounts that a noble family residing near a jungle had three sons and a daughter. Witnessing a tigress, weakened from childbirth and unable to feed her cubs, the youngest son, driven by deep compassion, sent his older brothers ahead and offered his own body as sustenance. This selfless act marked the beginning of his profound journey towards Buddhahood, a path dedicated to the welfare of all sentient beings.

In ancient times, the region surrounding Namo Buddha was filled with danger, as wild animals posed a significant threat to travelers. To calm their fears and ensure safe passage, locals began invoking the sacred mantra “Namo Buddhaya,” seeking refuge in the Buddha’s compassionate light. The efficacy of this practice became so renowned that the area itself came to be known as Namo Buddha, a testament to the power of faith and the Buddha’s enduring legacy. Lama hung prayer flags on the ridge overlooking the valley below along with lighting butter lamps.

Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the monkey temple)

Next, Lama Lakshey visited the Swayambhu Stupa, one of Nepal’s oldest religious sites. As he explored the sacred grounds, he encountered many monkeys freely roaming the area. According to local legend, these monkeys are believed to be the transformed descendants of head lice that infested the hair of Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom.

It is said that Manjushri, upon having a vision of the Lotus at Swayambhu, traveled to this sacred site to pay homage. Recognizing the potential of the valley for human dwellings, he miraculously carved a gorge through the landscape, draining the lake and creating the valley where Kathmandu now stands. The Lotus itself was said to have transformed into the hill upon which the stupa now rests.

Boudhanath Stupa

After leaving the Swayambhunath Stupa, Lama finished the day by visiting the Boudhnath Stupa, a major spiritual landmark seen as the embodiment of the enlightened mind of all the Buddhas located in Boudhanath, within the city of Kathmandu. Lama mentioned that visiting the three stupas in one day is significant as it means that one is able to pacify karma from being reborn into the lower realms of existence.

One of the most striking features of Boudhanath Stupa is the all-seeing eyes (Wisdom Eyes) that gaze out in the four directions. These eyes represent the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha. They are symbolic in reminding us about the importance of cultivating these qualities in our own lives.

Day 2 Adzom Monastery, Pharping

Lama was very happy to be able to attend the Celebration and 10th anniversary of his Vajra brother Adzom Rinpoche’s Monastery. It was a day filled with celebration and smiles all around . The monastery is home to 300 monks Then afternoon Chod practice took place in the main shrine room.

Day 3 Guru Rinpoche Statue, Pharping

Up the road a short distance from Adzom Monastery is a large Guru Rinpoche statue constructed by Penor Rinpoche who was very close with Lama Lakshey’s teacher HH Jigme Phunstok. It is said that Pharping is the very place where Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) had attained enlightenment.

Day 4 Guru Rinpoche Ghyoi Lisang Peace Garden and Pond

A short walk from Boudhanath Stupa, this serene garden features a large statue of Guru Rinpoche, a sacred pond, and eight stupas representing key events in the life of Buddha Shakyamuni.

Day 5 Vajrasattva practice at Sherpa Monastery

Lama was invited to Sherpa Monastery in Kathmandu, one of the oldest monasteries in the Nyingma tradition. This monastery was once the seat of where Dudjom Rinpoche, Jigdral Yeshe Dorje (1904-1987) one of the most important and impactful Buddhist masters of the past several centuries spent much time. The practice was very joyous surrounded by a community of monastics along with many yoginis and yogis.

Sherpa Monastery in Kathmandu,Sherpa Monastery in Kathmandu,

Day 6 Asura Cave and Yangleshö (The Power Place of Accomplishment)

Lama Lakshey visited Yangelso with his Vajra brothers to practice Vajrakilaya, a wrathful yidam deity who embodies the enlightened activity of all the Buddhas. This practice is known for being the most powerful for removing obstacles and destroying the forces hostile to compassion. The location is considered very special for many pilgrims as the caves here are considered the most profound of all sites connected with the activity of Guru Rinpoché. This location is now the village of Pharping. Guru Rimpoche attained the ultimate fruition of Mahamudra, the Great Seal.

Day 7 Self Arising Tara Statue Bhanktapur