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Khojarnath Monastery

Located in the village of Khojarnath, a small frontier village which borders Nepal, the Khojarnath Monastery has a history of over 1,000 years and was formerly one of the most renowned monasteries in the Ngari region. As a monastery of the Sakyapa Sect, it was said to be built by Rinchen Zangpo (958--1055), a great Tibetan Buddhism translator of the Guge Kingdom who was devoted to introducing and translating Buddhism scriptures. Influenced by this respectable translator, the monastery once enjoyed a high reputation and, at its peak, had over 100 sub-monasteries throughout Tibet. Though its glory diminished after Rinchhen Zangbo had moved to the Tholing Monastery, the Khojarnath Monastery is still renowned among the pilgrims, who consider their pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar would not be complete without making an offering at the Khojarnath Monastery.
The monastery is a small but impressive red building, with one of the walls made of mani stones and yak skulls. As a result of natural and historical decay, the renovated monastery is not as impressive as it once was. However, one can still trace the profound religious background and delicate techniques from the ornate paintings, statues and wood carvings. The statue of Manjusri Bodhisattva, the most important Buddha statue consecrated in the monastery, is said to have brought good fame to the monastery. Legend has it that the statue asked to stay here on its way to be sent to Gar County. The Buddha's speaking being considered good luck, a monastery was constructed, hence the village. Every year on January 12 in the Tibetan calendar, the anniversary of the day on which the construction of the monastery was completed, a big ceremony is held. Considered as the most important religious festival by the locals, the ceremony attracts people from all over Purang County to enjoy the carnival of Tibetan dances and chants. Moreover, the small village of Khojarnath, with its fragrant mild air, clear rivers and simple-hearted people, is another reason for an unforgettable visit.

  Getting There:

The monastery is 20 km (12 miles) southeast from Purang County. Because of the poor road conditions it may take up to two hours to get there.

  Admission Fee:

CNY 30 (Bargaining is possible).

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