Tamshing Lhakang (temple) Bumthang District of central Bhutan is the most significant Nyingmapa temple in Bhutan. The temple and monastery are exceptional for their direct link to the Bhutanese saint Pema Lingpa.
Tamshing Lhakang (temple) Bumthang District of central Bhutan is the most significant Nyingmapa temple in Bhutan. The temple and monastery are exceptional for their direct link to the Bhutanese saint Pema Lingpa. Tamshing is the original home of holy dances that are rejoiced at conventional Tsechus (festivals) all over Bhutan, according to Joseph Houseal, director of Core of Culture Dance Preservation. In March 2012 the monastery was proposed for writing on the UNESCO World Heritage List though it is on the uncertain list at present. The temple was constructed in 1501 by Pema Lingpa; the coeval wall painting consists of his portrayal and is among the most primitive in the country. Prior to 1960 Tamshing was a personally possessed temple (as many other temples in Bhutan). In 1521 after Pema Lingpa passed away in the temple at the age of seventy-two, his children take over care of the temple. Slowly, over many years, Tamshing fell into circumstances of poor condition and abandon. The temple courtyard was used as a granary and apart from special days, local natives appeared less. The center task of Tamshing are teaching the Dharma, performing holy services for the society and educating the young monks under its concern. Because Tamshing is not supported by the government it comes across growing challenges caused by supporting 95 monks while sustaining the ancient physical formation. At present it is a seat of Lama Sungtrul Rinpoche the current speech incarnation of Pema Lingpa. Tamshing embraces a failing temple and cramped monks quarters. The monastery supports a body of more than 95 monks.
