Tango Monastery Restoration Project

The Tango Monastery restoration project is a remarkable endeavor aimed at preserving one of Bhutan’s most sacred and historically significant sites. Situated in the scenic hills north of Thimphu Valley, the monastery embodies the spiritual and cultural essence of Bhutan.

The Tango Monastery, located approximately 17 kilometers north of Thimphu Valley within Kawang gewog, stands at an elevation of 2320 meters above sea level. It offers a significant representation of Bhutanese spirituality and cultural heritage. Positioned atop a hill, it provides an unobstructed view of the Thimphu Wangchu River. Surrounding the monastery is a dense forest, creating an environment conducive to the principles of the Drukpa religion. This setting, combined with the monastery’s spiritual significance, makes it a revered destination for locals and pilgrims seeking a place for meditation, spiritual reflection, and exploration of Buddhist teachings.

The Tango Monastery holds the revered title of the “Second Copper-Colored Celestial Palace,” believed to be the secret sacred realm of Guru Padmasambhava. Its historical significance is intertwined with prophetic narratives and divine occurrences connecting its existence to celestial and spiritual domains. According to beliefs, the location has witnessed miraculous transformations of the earth, where rocks, stones, hills, and mountains are said to have turned into protective deities, both peaceful and wrathful, symbolizing the control and protection of sentient beings through the extraordinary powers of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

A pivotal aspect of its sanctity is the manifestation of Avalokitesvara in the formidable figure of the Wrathful Hayagriva. This occurrence solidified the monastery’s stature as a revered sanctuary, known as Siddhidhara, blessed by Guru Padmasambhava himself.

The Tango Monastery has historical ties to revered saints whose contributions were pivotal. Figures like Phajo Drukgom Zhigpo and Zhabdrung Rinpoche left enduring spiritual legacies, enriching the site with their meditation practices.

Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, esteemed for his association with Tibet’s Ralung Monastery, ventured into Bhutan with a significant purpose—to spread the profound teachings of the Drukpa sect in the southern valleys. During this mission, Zhigpo experienced a transformative event. In the Tango region, he heard a resounding horse’s neigh and witnessed a cliff formation resembling the deity Tandin, reminiscent of the horse-headed Hayagriva enveloped in mystical flames. A divine presence appeared before Zhigpo, prophesying that this site was destined to be the grounds for building a monastery, a spiritual stronghold from which Buddhism would resonate throughout the country.

Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the visionary founder of Bhutan, also found solace in this consecrated area. He utilized its spiritual essence for meditation and conducted the cremation rites for his father, Yab Tenpai Nima, within the caves resembling the horse’s head cliff formation, thereby profoundly sanctifying the site.

In 1689, Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye, the fourth Druk Desi, initiated a significant project to build the intricately designed 12-cornered monastery at this revered site. Before this construction, the sacred area housed a modest structure established by Phajo Drugom Zhipo, consisting solely of meditation caves and tshamkhangs. The monastery, envisioned as pivotal and foretold by prophecy, has since become a prominent Buddhist hub.

The present monastic complex comprises four main structures: Utse, Shabkhor, Tshokhang, and Toilet. It operates as the Institute of Advanced Vajrayana Studies, established under the enlightened guidance of Gyelse Truelku. Additionally, the complex incorporates Dubkhang, situated above the current monastic compound. Currently, the monastery functions as the Institute of Advanced Vajrayana Studies, consisting of several key structures.

Due to structural damage, particularly to the Utse building, a restoration project was initiated. The Tango Restoration Project is being implemented by the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development since December 2018. Key activities included the preparation of architectural designs, structural consolidation, landscaping, installation of a firefighting system, and re-electrification of the monastery complex.

The restoration process included detailed assessments and documentation of the site’s historical modifications, architectural significance, and structural vulnerabilities. Notable findings included severe wall cracks, timber decay, and foundation issues that required careful intervention. Local and foreign experts were engaged to ensure the structural stability and preservation of the monastery’s priceless wall paintings and other cultural elements.

The successful restoration of Tango Utse stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and commitment of our department in safeguarding both our tangible and intangible heritage. This endeavor exemplifies the department’s profound dedication to preserving our cultural treasures. It showcases not only our commitment but also our remarkable competence and expertise in overseeing projects centered on conserving the essence of our heritage.

Tango Utse’s restoration holds profound significance beyond mere structural refurbishment. It represents the revival of our cultural identity and serves as a testament to our heritage’s resilience. More than a place of worship, it embodies a timeless repository of our traditions and history. Through this meticulous restoration, Tango Utse is poised to transcend temporal boundaries, ensuring the safe and enduring preservation of its invaluable debri paintings.

These exquisite artworks, revered across generations, possess the power to enchant the hearts and minds of our descendants. They serve as a bridge between the past and the future, encapsulating the essence of our rich cultural legacy. The restored Tango Utse, therefore, not only revives the physical structure but also rekindles the spirit of our heritage, preserving it as a living legacy for generations to come. This restoration signifies our commitment to honoring and perpetuating the rich tapestry of our cultural history, fostering a deep sense of connection and appreciation for our shared heritage.

Chagri Monastery Restoration Project

Chagri goenpa is located on a steep hill at about 14 km from the Thimphu city. It sits on a hill above the end of the road at Dodeyna and it takes about an hour to walk up the steep hill to reach the monastery from there.

Chagri Dorjeden Monastery, also known simply as Chagri Monastery, is a significant spiritual and historical site in Bhutan. Located about 14 kilometers north of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, Chagri Monastery sits on a steep hill above Dodeyna at an altitude that offers a serene and contemplative environment. The site is accessible by an hour-long trek from the end of the road, emphasizing its remote and tranquil setting—ideal for meditation and spiritual retreats.

The monastery’s history is deeply intertwined with the development of Bhutanese Buddhism and the Drukpa Kagyu tradition. The site is believed to have been initially blessed by Padmasambhava, an 8th-century Buddhist master who is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. It gained further significance in the 13th century when Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, a Tibetan Lama, visited the area and laid the groundwork for establishing the Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism in Bhutan.

Chagri Monastery was formally established in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, an important figure in Bhutanese history who is revered as the unifier of the country and the founder of the Bhutanese state. At the age of 27, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal chose Chagri as the site for Bhutan’s first monastic retreat and established it as a center for the Drukpa Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. He spent three years in strict retreat at the monastery, and it was here in 1623 that he formally established the first Drukpa monastic order in Bhutan, solidifying Chagri’s role as a key religious institution. In 1705, Umze Peljor, the 7th Druk Desi (regent of Bhutan), retired to Chagri Monastery and lived there until his death in 1707, further enhancing its importance as both a spiritual and administrative center.

Chagri Monastery is a beautiful example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, combining practicality with religious symbolism. The monastery is centered around a unique twelve-sided tower, or “utse,” which serves as both the spiritual and architectural focal point of the complex. This central tower is surrounded by a stone-paved courtyard, with interconnected buildings housing the monks’ quarters, classrooms, and administrative offices, all designed in harmony with Bhutanese architectural traditions.

The construction method reflects meticulous craftsmanship. The use of local materials, such as stone masonry and timber framing, showcases the Bhutanese tradition of working with natural materials that complement the surrounding landscape. Local stones are carefully selected and cut to form the structural basis of the buildings, providing stability and durability in Bhutan’s challenging mountainous environment. Timber, particularly pine and cedar, is used extensively for roofing, door and window frames, and decorative elements, which are often intricately carved with religious motifs. The walls are finished with earth and mud plaster, providing insulation and protection from the elements while maintaining a natural aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the environment.

Despite its historical and cultural significance, the Chagri Monastery has experienced structural challenges over time. Notably, the western wall of the Utse has shown significant deflection, with visible separation gaps and vertical cracks. Previous renovations have only filled the cracks without addressing the underlying cause of the damage, suggesting that the issue may have resulted from the sliding of the structure due to an unknown reason rather than a construction fault.

In response to these concerns, preservation efforts have been initiated by the Heritage Sites and Archaeology Division under the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development, Ministry of Home Affairs. The use of RCC (reinforced cement concrete) buttresses and other structural reinforcements aim to stabilize the site and ensure its longevity.

Chagri Monastery continues to hold enduring significance as a spiritual sanctuary, drawing pilgrims and practitioners seeking spiritual enlightenment and retreat. It serves as a center of Buddhist learning, preserving and transmitting the teachings of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage. The monastery’s influence extends beyond spiritual practices to include governance, having hosted important figures like Umze Peljor, who contributed to its administrative functions.

Chagri Dorjeden Monastery stands as a paramount symbol of Bhutanese heritage, embodying the nation’s religious, cultural, and architectural traditions. Its distinctive twelve-sided utse, traditional Bhutanese architecture, and integration with the natural landscape reflect a harmonious balance between spirituality and craftsmanship. The site continues to be a revered pilgrimage destination, offering insights into Bhutan’s religious history and architectural legacy.

Given its rich history, architectural uniqueness, and cultural significance, Chagri Dorjeden Monastery is rightfully recognized as a heritage site. Preservation efforts will ensure it remains a beacon of Bhutanese spiritual and cultural heritage for future generations.

Pangrizampa Monastery Restoration Project

Location: Pangri Zampa Monastery, also known as Pangri Zampa Lhakhang, is located on the western bank of the Thimphu River, roughly 30 minutes by car from central Thimphu. The site is situated towards the northern periphery of the town, nestled in a serene natural setting. 

Founded in the 16th century by Lam Ngawang Chogyal and his son Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk, Pangri Zampa Monastery holds a significant place in Bhutan’s religious history. Originally named “Druk Phodrang,” meaning “Castle of the Dragon,” the monastery has strong ties to Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, a key figure in Bhutanese history who established a separate Bhutanese identity in the 17th century. Upon arriving in Bhutan in 1616, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel made Pangri Zampa his residence and built another temple on the site. His arrival is steeped in legend; it is said that a raven, a symbolic bird in Bhutanese mythology, guided him to this exact location, and the monastery is home to a large cypress tree where the raven is believed to have perched.

Architectural Significance: Pangri Zampa Monastery is an excellent example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, featuring distinct elements such as:

• Dzong Architecture: Characterized by massive white-washed walls, intricately carved wooden windows, and a fortress-like structure.
• Chortens (Stupas) and Prayer Wheels: These are strategically placed around the monastery, enhancing its spiritual ambiance.
• Decorative Murals and Frescoes: The walls are adorned with colorful paintings depicting Buddhist iconography and the life of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava).
• Wooden Balconies and Pillars: Decorated with traditional motifs and religious symbols, showcasing the skills of Bhutanese artisans. 

Recent structural assessments have identified areas requiring renovation to preserve the monastery’s architectural integrity:

1. Damp Areas at Foundation Level: Moisture issues at the foundation level have been addressed through improved drainage.
2. Cracks on Intermediate Walls: These have been repaired, and reinforcement measures have been implemented.
3. Deteriorated Timber Components: Timber elements showing signs of decay have been replaced or repaired 

These restoration efforts highlight the monastery’s resilience and its continued preservation as a cultural and religious site.

Cultural and Educational Role: Pangri Zampa Monastery serves as a significant spiritual, cultural, and educational hub in Bhutan:

1. Spiritual Significance: The monastery is a revered site where the annual Jana Chidoe Kurim, a nine-day sacred ceremony, is performed to ensure the well-being of all sentient beings and promote peace and prosperity across the country.
2. Center for Astrology: In 2003, the School of Traditional Astrology was established at the monastery, making it the only such institution in Bhutan. It plays a vital role in teaching traditional Bhutanese astrology (Tsewang), determining significant national events, and publishing the annual Bhutanese calendar.
3. Cultural Heritage and Tourism: As one of Bhutan’s oldest and most important temples, Pangri Zampa Monastery is a key destination for both pilgrims and tourists, contributing to Bhutan’s cultural tourism sector. 

The monastery qualifies for heritage site registration based on several criteria:

1. Specificity of Design: Pangri Zampa features distinct Bhutanese architectural elements, such as dzong-like structures, stupas, prayer wheels, and vibrant murals.
2. Age of Materials: Dating back to the early 16th century, the monastery’s original structure has undergone various renovations to maintain its historical authenticity.
3. Quality of Construction: Built using traditional Bhutanese methods, the monastery has stood resilient against natural wear and tear, including earthquakes.
4. Interpretation of History: The monastery’s association with key historical figures like Lam Ngawang Chogyal, Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk, and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel adds to its cultural and historical significance.
5. Significance of the Place: As a spiritual sanctuary, center for astrology, and tourist attraction, Pangri Zampa Monastery holds a vital role in Bhutan’s religious and cultural landscape. 

Pangri Zampa Monastery, located on the west bank of the Thimphu River, is a remarkable monument of Bhutanese heritage. With its origins tracing back to the 16th century, the monastery showcases the nation’s unique construction techniques, artistic prowess, and religious traditions. Its role as a center for spiritual practice, astrology, and education reinforces its importance in preserving Bhutan’s cultural legacy. The annual Jana Chidoe Kurim ceremony further enhances its status as a hub of intangible cultural heritage.

The monastery’s continued significance as a spiritual sanctuary, historical monument, and educational institution makes it a cornerstone of Bhutanese identity and heritage, deserving of recognition as a national treasure.