Ancient Chortens in Upper Mustang Nepal
Important Chorten in Upper Mustang Nepal
Chortens in upper mustang are not only the religious monuments; they are the pillars of devotion, arts and heritage that symbolize the spiritual and cultural spirit. The significance of stupa goes beyond the architectural beauty. It covers the trust, traditions and history of the people of upper mustang Nepal. All Chortens of mustang area stand as timeless symbols of the enduring essence of mustang and its deep connection to Buddhist philosophy.
Mainly chortens are found nearby the entrances of villages, along trekking routes and close to the monasteries. They serve as protective, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings for inhabitants and travelers alike. Chortens of upper mustang are the constant reminder of the divine presence in daily life.
Cultural and religious importance
Local make new or repair ancient chortens of four corners (east west, north, south) in each village, pray, chant mantra and offers lamp as per the instructions of lama (tantric or shamans). They believe that 3 chortens painted with black, white and red colors in each corners, helps to protect the villagers from negative energy. There are chorten gate at the entrance & exit of every Buddhist village of upper mustang area Nepal. These chorten stand as silent sentries, make sacred spaces and offer a glimpse of history and deep spiritual traditions.
Famous chortens in upper mustang
There are many chortens /stupas in each village of upper mustang among of them some popular one listed below for reference.
1: Chorten of tangbe
Chortens, or stupas, are Buddhist monuments that symbolize the enlightened mind of the Buddha. They are built to preserve sacred relics, commemorate important events, or serve as places for meditation and prayer. The design of chortens can vary, but they typically feature a dome-shaped structure topped with a spire, often adorned with intricate carvings and prayer flags.
2: Chorten of chhusang
This chorten serves as a gateway to the village, it symbolizes protection and blessings for travelers.
3: Chorten of ghiling
Chortens are sacred structures that represent the Buddha’s enlightenment and the path to spiritual awakening. They are places for prayer, meditation, and offerings, serving as focal points for the religious life of the community.
4: Chhunggar chorten
This chortens is adorned with colorful paintings and intricate wood carvings, showcasing the artistic mastery of mustang’s craftsmen.
5: Khorok chorten
This chortens located in between ghami to dhakmar, situated against a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs, highlight the historical and spiritual richness of mustang Nepal.
6: Stupas and chortens gate of tsarang
The chortens of upper mustang hold immense cultural, religious and historic significance. There are numerous chortens in tsarang village among them red chortens are particularly striking against the backdrop of arid landscape, signify the deep-rooted faith of villagers.
7: Sungda chorten
Chortens are an integral part of mustang’s spiritual landscape. Local monks and villagers regularly perform rituals, offering butter lamps, prayer flags, and incense to honor these sacred structures. Pilgrims visiting mustang often walk around the chortens, reciting prayers and seeking spiritual purification.
8: Chortems of lo manthang
Ancient walled city lo manthang is dotted with chortens that stand as guardians of the city’s spiritual heritage. These chortens, adorned with colorful prayer flags, mani stone, mantras etc.
9: Amazing chortens of tangge
This chorten, with its intricate carvings and vibrant colors, is a testament of artistic prowess of mustangi people.
10: Chortems of chhoser area
11: Beside that there are about 108 chortens (small stupas) around ghar gumba. These chortens are believed to symbolize the Buddha’s teachings and serve as a medium for accumulating merit, purifying negative karma, and guiding spirits toward enlightenment.
History and geography
There are about 250 to 350 chortens (some ruins only) in upper Mustang area. Most of the chortens are built in between 13 to 17 centuries and their protection is a testament of Mustangi culture. They are well known spiritual landmarks as well as the historical artifacts. Small stupas are spiritual and cultural fabric to decorate the villages, monastery as well as the ancient salt trading route between Nepal and Tibet. Local communities and organizations are working to ensure the protection of chortens for future generations.
Architecture and symbolism
Chortens are decorated with eight auspicious symbols of Buddhism, dragons, animals, flowers and frescos into the wall and ceiling. Typically, a chorten consists of a square base representing the earth, a dome symbolizing water, a spire embodying fire, and a crescent moon and sun at the top, representing air and space. These elements collectively signify the five elements of Buddhist cosmology and the path to enlightenment.
The chortens in upper mustang are masterpieces of traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture. Many chortens are often adorned with prayer flags, which flutter in the wind, carrying mantras and prayers to the heavens. Some chortens contain relics, sacred texts, or statues, making them repositories of spiritual energy, power of faith and tradition.
