 |
| Yumbu Lakang - Birthplace of Tibet |
|
Yumbu Lakang is the oldest-known dwelling in Tibet, its construction
surrounded by various myths and legends associated with the founding
of the Tibetan civilization. One such myth tells that King Nyatri
Tsenpo descended from heaven in the 2nd century BCE to build the castle.
Another legend claims that the 28th King of Tibet, Lha Totori Nyentsen,
resided here late in the 4th century.
Although some archaeologists support the claim that the foundations
of the building date back two millennia, a larger historical consensus
dates the structure to the reign of King Songtsen Gampo (r. 608-650
CE). As well as enlarging the structure that may have pre-existed
to a size far exceeding today's castle, he also set up the two-story
chapel here, investing the castle with a secondary monastic function.
Subsequent kings expanded the castle-monastery; the Fifth Dalai
(1617-82), declaring King Songsten Gampo to be an incarnation of
the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara gilded its roof.
Unfortunately, during the Cultural Revolution (1966-76), Yumbu
Lakang was severely damaged. Much of the outer walls were destroyed
and its interiors were gutted. Consequently, much of the Indian
inspired inner fittings have been lost. With the exception of the
building's ancient foundations, much of the present structure dates
to the reconstruction of 1982.
The Yumbu Lakang complex, positioned dramatically on the crest
of a hill, consists of three components: the tower, the chapels
and the monks' quarters. The three-storied tower, located at the
east of the complex, contrary to its appearance is only 11 metres
(approximately 33 feet) high. Each floor contains a small chapel
located within its limited interior space. The main chapel building
was also originally three stories high. However, only two of these
storeys were rebuilt during reconstruction in 1982. Of these, the
first is dedicated to the historical Kings of Tibet and the second
to local Buddhist deities. The final component of the structure,
the monks' quarters, are located to the south of the chapel building.
The Nyingma sect monks, whose duty it was to upkeep the castle and
chapel, were quartered on the first floor, while the second floor
room, adjacent to the chapel's second floor, was reserved for the
use of the Dalai Lama.
Not far from the ancient castle, is a plot of land shaped like
a scythe (when viewed from the air), and enclosed by low walls.
This is known as Zorthang, Scythe Plain, and is reputed to be the
first cultivated field in Tibet. It is a tradition for pilgrims
and farmers alike to collect soil from this place and to sprinkle
it on their own plots to ensure a good harvest. Each year at sowing
time the small community of monks, still at Yumbu Lakang, conduct
rituals to propitiate its earth spirits. |
|
China Tour
Package
